Last Sunday, we headed outside of Paris for a visit to the Palace of Versailles with my aunt and uncle. My impression of the historical palace was wrapped up in associations with the royal monarchy, Marie Antoinette, and the French Revolution, but also as the place where the German Empire was founded and the first World War officially brought to an end.

The palace was grant and opulent, a sight worth seeing. But the gardens really stole my heart. It was a perfect summer day and we were all in the mood for a lazy stroll. We spent about six hours in Versailles, but it would have taken at least an entire day to see all the outlying buildings. I am glad we had the chance to go and see this grand monument of history.

Welcome! I'm Carly, a photographer and creative consultant in Portland, OR. Here you will find stories about photography, life in the Pacific NW, and recipes that celebrate local food and seasonal produce. Read more...